(Gray News) – A special Thanksgiving tradition will continue a little differently this year after a happy accident nearly a decade ago.

Wanda Dench, dubbed the “Thanksgiving Grandma,” and Jamal Hinton will gather from afar to share the holiday once again.

“Excited to announce that I’m hosting Thanksgiving this year for Wanda and me,” Hinton said in a post on X. “Looking forward to a day filled with good food, great company, and lasting memories. Year 9 coming soon!”

Due to health reasons, Dench said she will not be traveling to see Hinton in person this year but will be joining him for the holiday via FaceTime instead.

The pair accidentally connected in 2016 when Dench texted an invitation for Thanksgiving dinner to the wrong number.

Hinton was 17 at the time and responded that he was happy to drop by.

That text created a bond between two people that has stood the test of time since and has captured the attention of the country.

Earlier this year Wench revealed she was diagnosed with breast cancer and said Hinton calls to check up on her frequently.

“When he calls, I smile because Jamal, you know, we met back in 2016, and have been together every Thanksgiving,” Dench said.

She is being treated at the Breast Cancer Center in Prescott Valley and has a wonderful support system, which, of course, includes Hinton.

“I have such wonderful friends. They check on me. They ask me if I need any food or run any errands for me,” Dench said. “I’ve had so much more support than I ever could have imagined that I would and that helps a lot.”

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